Reelin' in Fish
Wow, that's a horrible header. I must be rusty. Anyway, it looks like a week to clear waivers is all that's separating Derek Fisher from a return to the Lakers. The 33-year-old former purple and gold point guard will ink a three-year deal worth about $14 million. He won't be an elite-caliber W.C. point guard, but he provides a major boost over last season's rotation. More importantly, the Lakers are in serious need of another veteran who can bridge whatever gap there is between the younger players (though can this be the year we finally retire the whole "Lakers are a young team" line/excuse?) and Kobe, and give 24 a ballast in the leadership realm. Someone who has his ear and his respect and won't be afraid to speak his mind.
Speaking of Bryant, Steve Dilbeck of the Daily News is upset he's not, well, speaking. Dilbeck would like him to clarify his stay-or-go position. For what it's worth, I think Kobe is doing absolutely the right thing by saying nothing provocative (and almost by definition, anything he says would qualify). There is no response to The Big Question or its inevitable follow-ups that wouldn't restart the media wildfires that have finally, mercifully, died down.
The Bulls are interested in Chris Mihm, but if he wants big money from Chicago, Mihm likely won't get it.
BK
I guess the Fish signing basically puts the icing on the cake of the "acquiring solid role players" portion of building an NBA team.
Unfortunately, all we still have is 1 All-Star and a bunch of role guys. Don't get me wrong, I think our role guys are on par with the best rosters in the league, but those rosters have 2-3 All-Stars above them.
It's now time to get some upper tier talent to pair with Kobe.
LO, Bynum, and Sasha for Jermaine O'Neal. Get it done and let's move forward.
Posted by: Andrew Z | July 12, 2007 at 09:12 AM
Neither PHX or Bulls want to pay Mihm what he's asking for. So is he gonna realize that he's just gonna get one to three mil at the most? I hope we keep Mihm.
Posted by: ajax | July 12, 2007 at 09:14 AM
Steve Francis is the answer. If we don't get a post up player, then Fisher is a none factor to me.
It is clear to me that Kupchak only makes safe moves and that is why our management sucks.
If I was Kobe I would be mad too.
The only thing that should save Kupcake is Garnett.
Miami is somehow after all the same players we need.
Steve Francis is just like Wade and is a fun person to play with if you are a guard. Kobe and Francis would have given us the uptempo, exciting, and clutch backcourt that we could have asked for.
imagine if out lineup was
Francis
Kobe
Walton
LO
Kwame
I mean Franics has never been on a team when he was superstar guard. The Knicks tried it, but playing with Steph and you are the point just doesn't work. Even you have Steph or Steve, but not both.
Steve Francis would have give the Laker's the confidence that the need from the point.
Derek Fisher is good, but not exciting. Kobe wants to play with players around him that can make plays. Not derek Fisher type players who only gives you the 3 and some defense.
If Rodman did it, the Steve Francis in LA is the new Rodman at a different possesion. And less Hollywood off the court. Only Hollywood on the court.
D Fish is the boring and his game will not make LO or anybody else on our team better. He is not that type of player.
I am not sold on just getting D Fish.
D- Fish was a Shaq player. He is not a Kobe player.
Posted by: Zakee | July 12, 2007 at 09:16 AM
SHIP BYNUM AND COOK ALREADY
Posted by: tp | July 12, 2007 at 09:18 AM
Excellent article on the offseason state of the Lakers here - I agree with virtually 100% of it.
http://www.hoopsworld.com/article_22722.shtml
My favorite quote from it:
"The Lakers would like to make sweeping changes that will restore confidence from a concerned fan base. That said, It'd be a shame if the only significant upgrades the Lakers make this season are Fisher and Crittenton."
Posted by: Jay Jay | July 12, 2007 at 09:21 AM
D-Fish was not just a Shaq player. He was the guy that was always open when somoene was double teamed! Kobe will get undoubtedly double teamed throughout the season, and Fish will hit the shots--something that Farmar, Smush (especially), LO can't do. Fish hits big shots. His defensive skills may be sub-par, but he can hit open shots. This is good for the Lakers.
Posted by: CJ | July 12, 2007 at 09:28 AM
I see that Fatty and Mamba24 still haven't returned to us so I will once again post this in hopes that we will see them again.
-------------------------------------------------------
As he logged onto the internet
It was the sound of a crescendo
He came into the Lakerblog
He left the messages on the screen
He posted them like a fable
He typed until he was unable
As he pressed the button "Preview"
He was struck down, not even a read through
Fatty are you ok?
So, Fatty are you ok?
Are you ok, Fatty?
Fatty are you ok?
So, Fatty are you ok?
Are you ok, Fatty?
Fatty? are you ok?
So, Fatty are you ok?
Are you ok, Fatty?
Fatty are you ok?
So, Fatty are you ok, are you ok, Fatty?
(Fatty are you ok?)
(Will you tell us that you're ok?)
(There's a sign on the print screen)
(That you typed some-a crescendo Fatty)
(He came into the Lakerblog)
(He left the messages on the screen)
(He typed until he was unable)
(As he pressed the button "Preview")
(not even a read through)
Fatty are you ok?
So, Fatty are you ok?
Are you ok, Fatty?
Fatty are you ok?
So, Fatty are you ok?
Are you ok, Fatty?
Fatty? are you ok?
So, Fatty are you ok?
Are you ok, Fatty?
Fatty are you ok?
Youve been hit by
Youve been hit by-
A cruel blogosphere
So they came into the outway
It was Tuesday-what a black day
Internet blog citations
Sounding heartbeats-intimidations
Fatty are you ok?
So, Fatty are you ok?
Are you ok, Fatty?
Fatty are you ok?
So, Fatty are you ok?
Are you ok, Fatty?
Fatty? are you ok?
So, Fatty are you ok?
Are you ok, Fatty?
Fatty are you ok?
(Fatty are you ok?)
(Will you tell us that you're ok?)
(There's a sign on the print screen)
(That you typed some-a crescendo Fatty)
(He came into the Lakerblog)
(He left the messages on the screen)
(He typed until he was unable)
(As he pressed the button "Preview")
(not even a read through)
(Fatty are you ok?)
(So, Fatty are you ok?)
(Are you ok Fatty?)
(You've been hit by)
(You've been struck by-
A cruel blogosphere)
Okay, I want everybody
To clear the area right now!
Aaow!
(Fatty are you ok?)
I dont know!
(Will you tell us, that you're ok?)
I dont know!
(There's a sign on the print screen)
I dont know!
(That you typed some-a crescendo Fatty)
I dont know!
(He came into the Lakerblog)
I dont know!
(He left the messages on the screen)
I dont know why, Fatty!
(He typed until he was unable)
I dont know!
(As he pressed the button "Preview")
(not even a read through, Fatty!)
(Fatty are you ok?)
Dad gone it-Fatty!
(Will you tell us, that you're ok?)
Dad gone it-Fatty!
(There's a sign on the print screen)
Dad gone it-Fatty!
(That you typed some-a crescendo Fatty)
Hoo! hoo!
(He came into the Lakerblog)
Dad gone it!
(He left the messages on the screen)
Hoo! hoo! hoo!
(He typed until he was unable)
Dad gone it!
(As he pressed the button "Preview")
(not even a read through, Fatty!)
Aaow!!!
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Mamba24 post the roll call, hallelujah
Mamba24 post the roll call, hallelujah
Larry, KG's being held hostage, oh please god no.
Larry, KG's being held hostage, oh please god no.
The bloggers are torn and the bloggers have cried, hallelujah
We're Laker fans filled with so much pride, hallelujah
Mamba24 post the roll call, hallelujah
Mamba24 post the roll call, hallelujah
Larry, KG's being held hostage, oh please god no.
Larry, KG's being held hostage, oh please god no.
Dr. Jerry Buss is silly and old, hallelujah
Phil's hip was replaced but not his soul, hallelujah
Mamba24 post the roll call, hallelujah
Mamba24 post the roll call, hallelujah
Larry, KG's being held hostage, oh please god no.
Larry, KG's being held hostage, oh please god no.
The bloggers are torn and the bloggers have cried, oh please god no.
Jim Buss makes me want to commit homicide, hallelujah
Mamba24 post the roll call, hallelujah
Mamba24 post the roll call, hallelujah
Larry, KG's being held hostage, oh please god no.
Larry, KG's being held hostage, oh please god no.
-----------------------------------------------------
BREAKING NEWS UPDATE: MAMBA24 AND FATTY STILL HELD HOSTAGE BY JIM BUSS IN RANDOM HORSE STABLE: TORTURE AND ICE CREAM ARE EXPECTED
FISH REELED IN FROM UTAH HAS RADIOACTIVE THIRD EYE BUT EXPECTED TO PROVIDE LEADERSHIP TO THOSE OF THE LAKE
KEVIN GARNETT JOINS JOHN KERRY IN PURSUIT OF FLIP FLOPS
LUKE FINDS OUT HIS FATHER IS A CRAZY EX-HIPPIE WITH A KNACK FOR SPOUTING COMPLETELY USELESS PHRASES - INKS DEAL WITH DEVIL
AND THAT'S ALL THE NEWS THAT'S FIT TO PRINT
NOW: ROLL CALL:
Faith, Taliq, Edwin Gueco,, KEIFO, FATTY, MIKE T. KIWI, RespectMyAuthorith, The D,
TIM-4-SHOW, THA_ SHOW, WESJOENIXON, TALIQ, BAYWOO, Bobie,SBPIMP, lakersrydeordie
NEVER, CALI KING, RICK FRIEDMAN,THIRTY2, WOW, EXHELODRVR, J-COOL,GENERIC_ONE
JJ, AJAX, MITCHELL., LAKERTOM, LAKERFAN, DAVID WHANG, KHANG
VMAN, KOREY, XTRO, MCGARNAGLE, GUGY, GDChild, Laker4Life
KL BEAST, Jorema, FearlessWhackJob, MARTY, JANDRO, LAKERFAZE, PhxLkrFAN,
TexasLaker, BOB, TreacherousBalloons, EagleBoy, TWOODY, EASTCOASTJESSIE,
Zakee, Swettual, Utzworld, Andrew Z, LAL Fan, BRANDON C., Kinglakernidas,
Fan of Mamba, Mamba24Fan4Life, BlackMamba24, FKILLAH, CYRUS(VENTRILIQUIST)
Waterboy, Hariyahu, ADAM KILEY,Bynum=The BigLazy, ZEN, SARCOCOP,Staples24
COMPTONS FINEST, MIGUELINHO, Greek Dude, J.Walter Weatherman, SOCALIFE,
Greekdude, Michael J, Michael H, Michael A., Rick Friedman, Gunner24, GINO,
CBUCK,LAKERGURL, CRITICAL BEATDOWN, PFUNK36, PAUL LEE, Jay EL
WEAVE MAN, JON KAVULIC, Tajluck, James da Kingpin, BERKLEYLAKER,
DION, KARL, CRAIG, MITCHELL, Lakers4Life, JimBussIsAMoron, JR, Dascilla
GABE, SEAN P., HanSoulFood, HollywoodJack, TheKobeShow, Jay Jay, TaosHum
Caeser, Obel, CHITOWNLAKER, ANGRYLAKER LAKER FANS, wiZo, MagicShaq,
HugoBoss, OSCAR, RDLEE, RealityBites, LakerLarry, Bucky, LEELO, BikBlonde,
Mfeige, Reggie, Hollywood Jack, Reality Check Time
ALL TOGETHER NOW
WE THE FANS OF THE LOS ANGELES LAKERS
DEMAND FATTY AND MAMBA24 BE RETURNED
AND FOR THE BLOG
FOR WHICH WE STAND
ONE BOBBLE HEAD OF PHIL JACKSON
WITH PANCAKES AND WAFFLES FOR EVERYONE
Posted by: generic_one | July 12, 2007 at 09:33 AM
Zakee,
You could make an argument for Francis prior to this signing, but bringing him in after signing FIsher would be really silly.
Posted by: exhelodrvr | July 12, 2007 at 09:38 AM
Zakee,
You have a point about Fish being a Shaq person. He seemed more comfortable around Shaq and sort of shied away from Kobe. Of course, Shaq encouraged this with all the other players.
The only mitigating factor would be that I think Fish really respected Kobe's approach to improving his game and making the most of his talents. This means there is the probability of some mutual respect there that the team needs.
Unless Stevie F. has changed some of his personality, I doubt he would fit with either this team, or the triangle.
I also do NOT want to give up both LO and Bynum for JO. Not enough upside to compensate for the probable downside. Mitch - hang tough. The race goes to the smartest and, often, most patient, not the quickest on the draw.
Posted by: Craig W | July 12, 2007 at 09:40 AM
Zakee
I lived in Houston during Francis' tenure there. He was certainly fun & exciting. He is, however, not a winner or a leader. He's pouty, streaky, turnover-prone and frequently a defensive liability. At his best, he was like Iverson, minus the heart and toughness. Since then, his play must have declined from injuries and disuse in NY as well.
He'd be fine on a small market team more desperate from flash than substance. He is not Laker material, least of all the mentally fragile present squad.
Posted by: The D | July 12, 2007 at 09:40 AM
ZAKEE !
I agree with u 100% as much as i like Fisher , he's far from being the nucleus player Lakers desperately need , the guy is good , but not great and people tend to forget that he's not better now than he was 3-4 years ago, people must remember Fisher is 31 , and why pay him 15 million now something the FO didnt want to do 3 years ago, it doesnt make no sense. This could one of the worst thing the lakers will do in the next three years.
Posted by: Thedream | July 12, 2007 at 09:43 AM
CJ -
"Fish hits big shots. His defensive skills may be sub-par, but he can hit open shots. This is good for the Lakers."
Have to disagree with you on this one.
Scoring has never been our problem.
What good does it do to have someone who can hit shots, but not defend???
WE NEED DEFENSE!!!
Posted by: keifo | July 12, 2007 at 09:44 AM
Since we can't get Billups, Mo Williams or J. Kidd, DFish is probably the best we can do. I'm not sold on Steve Blake, especially if there is a bidding war for him. I hope we don't trade Lamar for JO'Neal. I'd hold out for KG. The biggest question is the improvement of Bynum and Kwame. If eaither takes a leap forward and is injury free, we will have a decent year. If not, we better hope KG will come as a FA in '08 or we are looking at years of mediocrity.
Posted by: rdlee | July 12, 2007 at 09:46 AM
CJ
Fisher's subpar defense? What's par? Who are these lock down defensive point guards that can level off Parker, Nash and the like without fouling or needing a shot swatting big back in the lane? They're aren't any.
Fish might be slower than he was but he was never greased lightning. He gets calls and anticipates. The league rules don't allow for much more than that anymore.
He's an upgrade. A Kobe approved, expensive upgrade.
Posted by: Vman | July 12, 2007 at 09:47 AM
BK-
I like your header. It could be worse. For example, "Smells Like Fish In Here".
Posted by: ajax | July 12, 2007 at 09:48 AM
So... right now our roster stands at:
PG: Fish, Farmar, Java
SG: Kobe, Sasha
SF: Luke, Vlad, Mo
PF: Lamar, Cook, Turiaf
C: Kwame, Bynum
That's thirteen players. I'm assuming that Coby Karl will be signed and sent to the D-League in case the FO wants to call him up. Yue and Gasol will be playing overseas so we can retain their rights but they won't take up roster space. So, that leaves one spot open unless we make a trade or two.
Ruben Patterson might come for the remainder of our MLE or the vet minimum. Mihm we could sign for whatever we want, basically.
If there aren't any trades this summer, who is the one player that you guys would want with the amount of cash we have?
Posted by: generic_one | July 12, 2007 at 09:51 AM
Does Mihm honestly believe he will recieve or deserve that type of money. If so, I am forced to believe he has overdosed on whatever medication he was on while sitting on the bench with a bad wheel for the last 2 years. I hope the Lakers F.O. laughed when his agent uttered the words 5.5 million or whatever ridiculous amount.
And i like Mihm as a player. Watching the offensive incompetence of Kwame Brown (does he really have to be a laker next year, really?) made me appreciate Mihm's ability even more. But, he needs to prove it on the court before he gets a raise. He hasn't played in 2 YEARS. Whatever Turiaf is making, deduct 200k and that should be what we offer Mihm.
Posted by: young ev | July 12, 2007 at 09:53 AM
Those who still want a Odom and Bynum trade for Jermaine O'Neal get to get into some sorta rehab program ! Yes I'd love to land JO, but for both Lamar and Andrew, NO WAY !!!
Posted by: lalakerlover | July 12, 2007 at 09:57 AM
G1,
you get props for continuing Mamba24's legacy with role call.
Posted by: KLBeast | July 12, 2007 at 09:59 AM
lalakerlover,
I like Lamar Odom, I really do, but he adds redundant skills to what we already have in Kobe, Luke, etc. and at a hefty, #2 guy price.
Andrew Bynum has shown a lot of promise and I'm sure will be a very solid contributer for years to come in this league. The problem is, he's still very raw and years away from commanding any kind of attention in the league.
I will take the front office's word that they are building this team around Kobe with no intention of trading him. If that is the case, he needs an effective big man to work with. He needs someone who can work from the post, space the floor, and take some of the attention off of him. At the same time, the team as a whole needs a defensive presence in the paint in the worst way. They need someone to pose a shot-blocking threat to keep all the guards and wings from having a parade to the rim.
Jermaine O'Neal does all of those things. He will give you 18-24 points a game, 9-11 rebounds, and 2+ blocks. And he is at the same point of his career as Kobe.
We have solid role guys on this team, but they are all 2-3 spots higher on the depth chart than they should be because we lack All-Star talent outside of Kobe (and to a lesser extent LO). JO brings All-Star talent and credentials and that's a step in the right direction.
I say we make the deal and maximize having the best player in the NBA.
Posted by: Andrew Z | July 12, 2007 at 10:08 AM
The Lakers started FRICKIN' SMUSH PARKER the last two (2) years.
DEREK FISHER IS A GOD SEND. AMEN!!!!
Posted by: timwillis | July 12, 2007 at 10:10 AM
Don't get me wrong, I'm very pleased to see DFish come back. Definitely better than Smush! And who can forget, DFish hit the point-four shot for us! Big shot, yes?! DFish will hit open shots. He will distribute the ball through the triangle and he will do it good. He will teach Farmar and the rook. This is a very good move and i am very pleased. I have to agree with other posters about Steve "Franchise" (if you can call him that still). He is not a leader nor a franchise type player. His days are over and he's past his prime. I'm sure he'll be asking for lots of money too.
Posted by: CJ | July 12, 2007 at 10:16 AM
CJ,
why would stevie franchise come to the Lakers when there are better options for francis to win a championship? don't you get it, NOBODY'S GOING TO VOLUNTARILY COME TO LA TO HELP A SELFISH, JERK OF A PLAYER NAMED KOBE BRYANT. Check out all of the FA this summer (in fact, check out 2004, 2005 and 2006). Are any of them willing to take less money and come play for kobe?
Posted by: KLBeast | July 12, 2007 at 10:24 AM
KL:
I'm not continuing it... I'm just carrying the banner until Mamba gets back.
Posted by: generic_one | July 12, 2007 at 10:26 AM
G1,
Not sure who else is out there with the money we have. You're basically looking at veteran's minimum type stuff. We probably need help at the PF position more than anything, and I can't think of anyone out there who could help at that price.
I think Chris Mihm is the way to go. That would put us at 14 players under contract, barring any further trades. The Lakers have mentioned that they want to keep a roster spot open in case a vet gets bought out or something.
Coby Karl could be added, he's been good so far, and I'm not hearing anything about Eddie Jones. Smart older player, could play some 2 or 3 or even a big PG if necessary (far-fetched I know). Plus, we're in the mood for bringing back old Lakers so why not?
I'd hate to think that D-Fish and Crittendon are the only two moves we make this offseason, but it could very well be that way.
Posted by: Andrew Z | July 12, 2007 at 10:28 AM
I'm surprised that anybody would frown at the Lakers signing Derek Fisher. First, let's look at this realistically. How many all-star point guards were available? One. Chauncy Billups. The Lakers couldn't afford him and he didn't want to leave the Pistons. Beyond that, if you're the Lakers, what do you do? Ask John Stockon to come out of retirement? See if Magic has any juice left? Exactly what do the disatisifed fans want? Derek Fisher is a gift that fell into the Lakers laps...and people are complaining about it?!
To be a good defensive team, you don't need five lock-down defenders. Look at the Spurs: When's the last time Tony Parker was on the all-defensive team? Or Manu Ginobli? But, what they do is play defense as a team, everybody knowing their role, where to be and what to do. Derek Fisher provides this same thing for the Lakers. Along with Luke Walter. Add to that Kobe, who is a lock-down defender, and Kwame Brown who, if he can't do anything else, knows how to stay between his man and the rim.
Defensively, Fish makes the Lakers better. Offensively, by adding an experienced guard who played in the triangle during three championship runs, the Lakers are better. Then, beyond all of that, the Lakers now have the perfect player to mentor their young point guards so, in three years, when Fish is done, the Lakers will already have his replacement ready to go.
Martin
Posted by: Martin | July 12, 2007 at 10:31 AM
Considering the Mexican food discussion from a couple of days ago, you could have titled it "Fish Tacos for all fans in attendance"
Posted by: exhelodrvr | July 12, 2007 at 10:33 AM
So where does this leave the team in relation to the salary cap at the end of next season?
Posted by: exhelodrvr | July 12, 2007 at 10:35 AM
KL
its not about players taking less money to help kobe out, they just want to compete for a ring thats why they join miami, phoenix, and san antonio, it has nothing to do with kobe or the front office. its all about what the other teams already have in place.
Posted by: ose | July 12, 2007 at 10:36 AM
G1, good man. Mamba24 (Larry) will be back.
Posted by: KLBeast | July 12, 2007 at 10:37 AM
KL
You're kidding me right? Who takes less money to play anywhere?? It doesn't happen. Look at Rashard Lewis right now, he could have signed with a contender to get them over the top but he chose max money in orlando. Is that because Dirk, Nash, Boozer etc are just too undesirable as team mates??
NO. Its because priority number one (understandably) for all these guys is $$$.
The only players I remember recently taking less money for a chance to win rings are Malone and Payton.
Guess what they both were sure fire hall of famers in their late 30's already who had each made more than they could ever spend in the league. And still with all that incentive, still it was a HUGE deal that they decided to take less to play for more. It is unheard of in the NBA and cannot be seen as a knock against Kobe.
Who cares who wants or doesnt want to play with Kobe. Thats not how you win championships. You don't win by attracting cheap veterans. you win by drafting well, and surrounding your star power by good role players and spending wisely. We've spent most of our veteran role player building money on....
Kwame
Vladrad
Divac
Cook.
Sorry its not kobe's marketability, and we're tired of hearing it. Move on to the next erroneous anti-kobe soapbox that makes marginal, if logical sense while the rest of Lakerland moves on with the best player in the game, finally a point guard rotation with some cajones and hopefully a healthy front line.
Go lakers
Posted by: Jandro | July 12, 2007 at 10:38 AM
on Franchise. Before we knew D Fish was available, the choice seemed to be Franchise or Blake. I'm not a real big Blake fan and if, again IF Franchise toned his act down some and wanted to play some winning basketball, he could certainly do it, that's why I would have picked Franchise over Blake. But then Fisher became available and to me, that's a no brainer. So now we have all these guards so I can't see Franchise coming in unless Farmar gets traded somewhere. Crittenton was a gift from God in that draft, he should not have fallen that low so I can't see the Lakers trading him. Farmar has looked better these last 2 summer league games, so you would think he could handle backup duties this year. So Pincus is right, if we keep all of the current guards and don't make a trade, Sasha would seem to be the odd guy out, however... if Indiana was interested in Farmar + ? (Bynum OR Lamar or Kwame's expiring contract) + Cook? + draft pick? and whatever else it took to match salaries...
Sasha STAYS! as Sasha's one fan stands, yells and throws his fist in the air...
Posted by: TaosHum | July 12, 2007 at 10:41 AM
I for one feel good about adding Fisher and Crittenton. I believe this will help shore up our perimeter defense, which has been so sorely lacking. This alone will be a big help for guys like Bynum. It is a lot easier to defend the paint, if the opposing guards are being pressured while trying to penetrate. Previously, our bigs have been required to guard not only their man, but all of the other players given a free pass to the basket. The Lakers have had the offense to be a top tier team, but not the defense. This is a step in the right direction.
Roger
Posted by: Roger B | July 12, 2007 at 10:42 AM
keifo
"WE NEED DEFENSE!!!"
it's hard to play good team defense when the team lacks respect for its star. you can put 4 Ron Artest on the floor and the team defense will still suck becasue the team isn't playing team defense. the player is playing one-on-one defense. see the nuance? Defense takes desire, heart and respect/trust for one another. we'll see how our leaderless leader kobe bryant behaves when the season starts. so far, kobe's still being a little biatch and insists on being traded. traded? to whom? pluto? CHICAGO, PHX AND DALLAS DECLINED TO PURSUE A PRIME KOBE BRYANT. Bryant showed his true color this summer. No more hiding for the Big Selfish.
Posted by: KLBeast | July 12, 2007 at 10:42 AM
Am i reading this correctly?? Howard extended for 85 over 5??? by the same magic that yesterday signed Lewis for 125 over 6?? That is disgusting. Howard is one of sickest young players in the league and looks like a monster in the making, Rashard is a one dimensional show up when I feel like it, average D at best swingman. What is the world coming to. If I were DHoward I would laugh that extension in the face.
Posted by: Jandro | July 12, 2007 at 10:46 AM
D FISH IS BACK! PRAISE GOD!
Derek, it is great to have you back where you belong!
May God bless you and your daughter! I pray she gets the best care she can in Los Angeles.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon Kavulic | July 12, 2007 at 10:51 AM
Roger B,
I too like adding Fisher and especially Crittendon. However, neither should be considered starters on a team that has one All-Star on it's roster if that team is to be considered as a dangerous playoff team/contender.
The Lakers still need one certified All-Star and one second tier player added (LO could be that second tier guy if they can add an All-Star without giving him up) to be considered a contender.
I think LO and Bynum for JO would make us a better team, and I think if we get JO without giving up Odom we are in the elite of the West.
Posted by: Andrew Z | July 12, 2007 at 10:52 AM
Martin,
Thank you very much. I have read a lot of complaints about Fish's signing.
You are exactly correct about Team Defense. That's something more people need to watch and pay more attention to. The fact that Jerry Sloan was giving big minutes to Fish in the playoffs is a good enough endorsement for me. Utah is another team similar to San Antonio that plays great TEAM defense. If Fisher could help lead that young team to the WCF, he'll certainly help this Laker team.
As far as the front court goes. Mihm gets it done. He's no where close to an all star, but he makes our front court rotation legit.
The team doesn't need more scoring. Just like Utah, we run a set offense, and if our players know the offense and run it crisply, we'll score plenty of points. We do need a better front court "help" defender. Mihm is one of the best one's on the market.
sometimes it's tough to listen to all the "Big Trade" posters, looking for another 20 million dollar player on this team. TEAM play wins. TEAM play is not built with TWO big names. Team play is about players filling necessary holes and working together. Because of his knowledge of the Triangle and his attitude, Fisher is a big step in that direction.
Posted by: Benny Blanca | July 12, 2007 at 10:53 AM
If we trade for JO, we should keep LO or Bynum. No exceptions!
Posted by: ajax | July 12, 2007 at 10:55 AM
Martin:
Speaking of Magic--I live in Sacramento. And he showed at my work earlier this week. He looked great! He was nice to everybody and he shook hands and waved to people and took pictures with 'em too. It was nice to see my hero here. He's the reason why i even became a Lakers fan in the first place!
Posted by: CJ | July 12, 2007 at 11:00 AM
ajax,
I disagree, especially if we plan on keeping Kobe. He needs All-Star help, and LO isn't an All-Star and if Bynum ever becomes one, the timing is not right.
Jandro,
I think the amount and length has to do with how long you've been in the league, but I could be wrong.
That Rashard Lewis contract is now the worst in the league. How that guy gets max money is beyond me.
Posted by: Andrew Z | July 12, 2007 at 11:07 AM
jandro
grant hill took less money to compete for a championship. Payton/Malone did. Lot’s of guys take less money for an opportunity to win. I bet had shaq stayed, Fish would have considered staying to compete for more championships. This is something that kobe Bryant underestimated when he was ripping shaq a new one for stupid things like conditioning and being out of shape.
“Is that because Dirk, Nash, Boozer etc are just too undesirable as team mates??”
I’m not necessarily talking about the stars. Stars don’t win championships, it’s the role players who win. Don’t get me wrong, stars will get the majority of the credit, but it’s the role players that count. That’s why I can’t stand kobe Bryant. the old-guy’s been in the league for 11 years and still hasn’t figured that out. shaq figured this out in his 2nd season.
“Who cares who wants or doesnt want to play with Kobe.”
I care because I see that nobody chooses to come to LA and help kobe win a title. Jalen Rose would rather sit on the bench and ride Nash’s coattail than come to LA. The list can go on and on, but the proof is in the proverbial pudding. NAME ONE FREE AGENT OF STATURE VOLUNTARILY JOINING LA TO HELP KOBE WIN A TITLE THE PAST 3 YEARS GOING ON 4? nada.
“Lakerland moves on with the best player in the game, finally a point guard rotation with some cajones and hopefully a healthy front line.”
you’ve made my point. Where has the Laker team gone the past 3 seasons?
Posted by: KLBeast | July 12, 2007 at 11:09 AM
I am happy to see D-Fish back. Crittenton has surprised me already, and while I hated the draft initially, my hindsight is telling me that it was just what the Lakers needed: a NBA caliber PG and 2 projects we can send to foreign teams to get better. 2nd round picks that cost no money like that are great.
If anything, the signing of D-Fish tells me Farmar is going to be moved. Crittenton was drafted higher overall in a better draft year, he's the guy the Lakers will keep and develop for the future. Farmar will be moved, possibly with Kwame, in some sort of trade. It has to happen.
Overall this laker team is already an improvement in terms of depth and experience. Amazing how the loss of a bratty Smush Parker improves the team. 1 more year for a lot of these guys in the triangle is a HUGE benefit as well. Expect a good year from Radmanovic, if he stays.
Posted by: Alec | July 12, 2007 at 11:10 AM
KL -
All I'm saying is that we can't "out score" any team.
Absolutely it start with heart and desire and trust, but we can't just trade buckets.
And you're wrong... Kobe as of late HAS NOT DEMANDED a trade!!
Posted by: keifo | July 12, 2007 at 11:11 AM
Not sure who else is out there with the money we have. You're basically looking at veteran's minimum type stuff. We probably need help at the PF position more than anything, and I can't think of anyone out there who could help at that price.
I think Chris Mihm is the way to go. That would put us at 14 players under contract, barring any further trades. The Lakers have mentioned that they want to keep a roster spot open in case a vet gets bought out or something.
Coby Karl could be added, he's been good so far, and I'm not hearing anything about Eddie Jones. Smart older player, could play some 2 or 3 or even a big PG if necessary (far-fetched I know). Plus, we're in the mood for bringing back old Lakers so why not?
I'd hate to think that D-Fish and Crittendon are the only two moves we make this offseason, but it could very well be that way.
Andrew Z:
Yeah, the list is pretty short at this point. Corliss Williamson is a guy that could be brought in for that amount. Malik Allen is another. Derek Anderson? We've already got D-Fish so that would be kind of pointless.
I'd like to see Coby Karl locked up and sent to the D-League just in case he turns out to be a worth while prospect. He's looked good in the Summer League so far and since we have a log-jam at that position at the moment, we could retain his rights if we did it that way.
In all honesty, the free agent class of 07 was pretty damn weak. We really didn't have a lot of options for what we had to work with so it's looking like D-Fish was really the best option considering the intangibles and veteran leadership he'll bring to the team.
exhelodrvr:
As far as the salary cap is concerned, we'll probably be at around $55 million next season when Kwame and Mo come off the books. We still have yet to re-sign Ronny so that figure could go up to $56-57 depending on how much his contract is for. So, that'll probably be right at or below the salary cap if it's the same type of raise that it was this season (expected $58 million). Sasha also becomes a free agent that season (qualifying offer on his contract) so that's a couple million right there.
So, at that point I guess it would have to be decided on whether or not we'd be bringing Mo, Kwame and Sasha back.
Posted by: generic_one | July 12, 2007 at 11:12 AM
I think we all need to calm down about trading LO. Dude was putting up all star numbers before he got injured and showed alot of heart in gutting it out to try and help the team out. And i think that Fish is an upgrade at the 1 (if ever so slightly) so i think we are moving in the right direction. Patience is something that we must used because financially we are in a tough position.
Posted by: Bonez | July 12, 2007 at 11:22 AM
G1,
Danny Fortson is available still, he's a good rebounder. I wouldn't mind Corliss Williamson, can score around the bucket.
Derek Anderson wasn't even in the league last year I don't think.
I think that's why Mihm makes sense. Compare his production, familiarity, etc. to that of what we could get for the money we have and he's a good option.
Looing WAAAAYYY to far ahead, do you think Kwame Brown will get the MLE next season from someone? I assume he won't get the $9 million he's making this year.
Posted by: Andrew Z | July 12, 2007 at 11:24 AM
Generic:
NO, NOT SCORELESS WILLIAMSON!! That's everyone around here calls him in Sac...
Posted by: CJ | July 12, 2007 at 11:24 AM
G-1,
You're doing a good job. I think Fatty and Mamba24 are having a romantic fling, one has gone fishing for too long perhaps all the way to Bering Sea. while the other one went to Las Vegas oven watching every Summer League games. Somehow, they would come back and report their interlude. Anyhow, G-1 you are doing a good job we get the 2 for 1.
BK or anyone,
Now that we signed Fisher for 3 years only at 14M, what happens to the balance of the MLE contract? Can we still use that? If I'm not mistaken the 2 years will still be worth $12.6 M Can we obtain a player worth $6.3M for 2 years or a player worth $ 4.2M for 3 years? If we don't get any player, can include that money in a trade together with other playes to get JO?
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | July 12, 2007 at 11:29 AM
One of the worst trade-machine trades ever:
"Lakers and Miami swap some players and this is what the Lakers end up with:
Wade/Javaris/Farmar
Kobe/Evans
Odom/Yue
Turiaf/Filler
Shaq/Gasol
The reunion of Shaq and Kobe plus Waaaade! And we still keep Odum, Javaris, Farmer, Yue, Turiaf!! And we dont have to give up too much for shaq and wade.
http://games.espn.go.com/nba/features/traderesult?players=981~2748~1998~539~549~1823~1016~2421~2027~614~1987&teams=14~14~14~14~14~14~14~14~14~13~13
"
Wow.
Posted by: ajax | July 12, 2007 at 11:34 AM